Optical Current Transformer Based on a Terbium Gallium Garnet Crystal
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24160/1993-6982-2026-1-25-32Keywords:
optical current transformer, Faraday’s effect, Faraday rotator, terbium gallium garnet, ammeter, optical sensor, magneto-optical crystal, digitalization, electric power industryAbstract
Currently, Russia’s electric power industry is making transition to digital technologies, which consists in the introduction of the Smart Grid concept [1]. One of the problems faced in implementing the Smart Grid concept in electric distribution networks is their having a low observability level, which stems from insufficient accuracy of measurements by means of electromagnetic instrument transformers and the magnetic system susceptibility to the saturation effect [2]. One of possible solutions to this problem is to use ammeters in the form of optical current transformers, the operation principle of which is based on other physical effects, e.g., Faraday’s effect. The purpose of the study is to develop a model of an optical current transformer designed for 6–110 kV voltage classes, which is based on terbium gallium garnet – a material featuring high polarization plane rotation efficiency – and to evaluate its metrological characteristics. The optical current transformer operation principle is based on Faraday’s effect, according to which the light polarization plane rotates by an angle proportional to the magnetic induction value produced by the current. To achieve better measurement efficiency, a suitable magneto-optical element was selected. The device structural diagram and functional model were developed, and the experimental sample was tested under laboratory conditions. The developed device can be used in electrical distribution networks. Its application will improve the accuracy of measurements and network observability level, thereby facilitating the introduction of digital substations and Smart Grid concept. The topic of the study is relevant because digital transformation of the power industry is among Russia’s economy top-priority modernization areas
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Для цитирования: Ладыгин А.А., Куршев М.Р., Красько М.Д. Оптический трансформатор тока на основе кристалла тербий-галлиевого граната // Вестник МЭИ. 2026. № 1. С. 25—32. DOI: 10.24160/1993-6982-2026-1-25-32
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Конфликт интересов: авторы заявляют об отсутствии конфликта интересов
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Conflict of interests: the authors declare no conflict of interest
For citation: Ladygin A.A., Kurshev M.R., Kras’ko M.D. Optical Current Transformer Based on a Terbium Gallium Garnet Crystal. Bulletin of MPEI. 2026;1:25—32. (in Russian). DOI: 10.24160/1993-6982-2026-1-25-32.
